“I expect a lot of people will turn up with their £2 coin and not expect to have to pay more.

“It’s only another £3 but it’s the 150pc increase that’s the issue.”

A council spokesman said: “NNDC is a big supporter of the annual New Year’s Day free fireworks event hosted on its pier in Cromer.

“A flat rate of £5 from 2pm is being charged at Runton Road car park to enable people to park safely and close to the event. For those parking at 2pm and staying until 6pm, this is cheaper than the usual 4 hour stay of £6.

“This annual event takes a significant amount of planning, organisation and staffing which comes at a cost to the council so that everyone can enjoy the fireworks free of charge.

“Other council-run car parks will be available with normal charges applying during the day, visitors are advised that they are expected to be extremely busy and leaving the town will take longer from these car parks than usual.”